A new rule that the NFL implemented this season led to the Patriots’ ultimate downfall against the Jets on Sunday afternoon.
On a missed field goal in overtime, New England’s Chris Jones was flagged for an unsportsmanlike conduct call. During Nick Folk‘s unsuccessful 56-yard attempt, the Patriots rookie received the flag for pushing one of his teammates into a Jets lineman.
Former vice president of officiating for the NFL Mike Pereira took to Twitter to explain the bizarre ruling, stating that Rule 913 says “Team B players cannot push teammates on the line of scrimmage into offensive formation.” The FOX Sports analyst also said that it was the first time the penalty had been called this season.
With the 15-yard penalty, Folk was able to take the field three plays later, but this time from the 42-yard line, and his second kick was good. The controversial whistle ended up being the deciding factor in the Pats loss, but Jones’ actions — according to the rulebook — were illegal. It was a painful way to see the Patriots lose, but do you think the penalty was the right call?
Voice your opinion in the poll below.
